What is Cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy is a treatment that involves exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures for therapeutic purposes. It is used to reduce pain, inflammation and muscle soreness as well to promote recovery, enhance wellbeing and support certain medical conditions.
Types of Cryotherapy:
Whole Body Cryotherapy (WBC)
- The client enters a cryotherapy chamber or cryosauna where the temperature is rapidly lowered to between -110 degrees C to -150 degrees C using liquid nitrogen or refrigerated air
- Sessions last between 2-4 minutes
Localised Cryotherapy
- Focuses on specific body parts using cold packs, ice baths or devices that target problem areas e.g joints or muscles
Cryofacials
- A treatment that targets the face, aiming to improve skin tone and reduce inflammation
Medical Cryotherapy
- Used in clinical settings to treat skin conditions e.g warts or moles or abnormal tissue e.g tumors, often through the application of liquid nitrogen
How It Works:
- Cryotherapy rapidly cools the skin, causing blood vessels to constrict (vasoconstriction) and then dilate (vasodilation) after the session
- This process is believed to improve circulation, reduce inflammation and release endorphins
- The cold triggers the body’s natural healing response, aiding in pain relief and recovery
Benefits of Cryotherapy:
- Reduces chronic pain from conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia
- Alleviates muscle soreness and joint pain
- Helps with injuries, post surgical swelling and inflammatory conditions
- Popular amongst athletes to speed up recovery after intense workouts or injuries
- Can tighten pores, improve skin tone and reduce puffiness
- Promotes a relase of endorphins, reducing stress and enhancing mood
- Some claim it boosts metabolism due to cold-induced calorie burning